City of Newcastle has completed a $2.1 million project to improve safety for all road users at two intersections along Parkway Avenue in Hamilton South.
Upgrades to the roundabouts at Smith and National Park streets, along with new on-road cycle lanes, aim to create safer and more comfortable journeys for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
The project includes kerb realignments, the addition of six speed bumps, new shared path crossings and off-road cyclist bypasses to support people of all ages and abilities moving through the area.
The works were delivered by City of Newcastle using $469,000 from the Australian Government Black Spots Program, administered by Transport for NSW.
City of Newcastle Executive Manager Transport and Regulation, Ryan Tranter, said Parkway Avenue is an important connecting route for schools, sportsgrounds, shopping centres and beaches.
“These changes have been designed to cater for everyone who travels through the area,” Tranter said.
“We’ve made it safer by slowing traffic on approach to the roundabouts, providing off-road cyclist bypasses and designated on-road cycle lanes with a clear buffer to parked vehicles.
“This will help address the conditions that have led to eight crashes in the past five years at these two roundabouts, with most involving cyclists.
“We worked closely with Newcastle High School to ensure the project aligns with the school’s transport management plans and supports the current campus development project.
“The two raised shared path crossings in front of the school will also improve pedestrian safety, while retaining the heritage character of Parkway Avenue and its tree-lined median.
“Our engagement in 2024 showed strong community support for these safety and cycling improvements.”
Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, said the project would support safer travel through the precinct.
“These improvements make it safer and easier for people of all ages to walk, ride and connect with their neighbourhood,” Claydon said.
“By improving visibility and separating bikes from traffic, these upgrades enhance safety for cyclists, pedestrians and drivers alike.
“This project provides better transport choices and safer connections for people travelling to school, work or for recreation.”
In addition to the black spot funding for the roundabout upgrades and shared path crossings, City of Newcastle has funded eight shared-path cyclist roundabout bypasses and two on-road cycle lanes.
The project aligns with City of Newcastle’s On Our Bikes Cycling Plan 2021–2030 and will support future cycleway connections to the harbour foreshore.
Newcastle Cycleways Movement president, Nev Jones, said the design offers flexibility for riders.
“The shared paths suit less confident riders, while experienced cyclists can continue through the roundabouts on-road,” Jones said.
“The changes near Newcastle High School are expected to slow vehicle speeds and improve safety for pedestrians and riders of all ages.”
City of Newcastle will complete final works by early February, including line marking, signage and landscaping.
